Patrick Dempsey may be PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive of 2023, but he’s been a heartthrob for decades.
Grey’s Anatomy The star, who is now 57 years old, started stealing hearts in the 80s when he stepped into the industry as the star of classic romantic comedies and comedies. Thanks to his on-screen talents, serious charisma, and undeniable good looks, Dempsey rose to leading man status early in his career.
See photos of young Patrick Dempsey looking totally dreamy, long before he was named Sexiest Man Alive.
Teen Idol
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In the early years of his career, Dempsey made a name for himself with groundbreaking roles in comedies such as 1987’s. You Can’t Buy Me Love. Dempsey, who is only 21 years old, played a high school nerd who gets a makeover.
His character eventually wins the heart of the popular cheerleader played by Amanda Peterson, but there’s no doubt that Dempsey looked just as adorable before his on-screen overhaul.
Suit up
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The actor created his own red carpet style with a dark denim jacket and plaid trousers when he attended the premiere. Fourth Protocol In 1987.
Suit
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Dempsey showed off how well he cleaned up at his movie’s Hollywood opening I got into the moodHe plays real-life young womanizer Sonny Wisecarver.
Stealing Hearts
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By 1988, the young star had established himself as one of Hollywood’s most handsome leading men.
Talent Abundance
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Dempsey continued to make a name for himself on the film scene, but in the second half of the ’80s he ventured into the TV world, where he would one day dominate. Dempsey appeared in all seven episodes. Fast TimesSmall-screen sitcom adaptation of the 1982 coming-of-age film Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
Timeless smoldering
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Despite taking on a more serious role at age 22, Dempsey still had that boyish charm when posing for promotional photos for his 1988 drama. In a Shallow Grave.
Lots of love
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In 1989, Dempsey joined A-list superstars Kirstie Alley and Carrie Fisher. lover boy. The bright-eyed star once again played a young man courting more mature women.
Putting to Work
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At the 61st Academy Awards, Dempsey and 18 other Hollywood stars performed an elaborate musical number called “Stars of Tomorrow.” During the show, Dempsey had some solo moments, dancing and singing alongside the likes of Ricki Lake, Chad Lowe, Holly Robinson and Christian Slater.
Ahead of Oscar night, Dempsey and her fellow artists gathered for rehearsals (pictured). The fresh-faced heartthrob clearly knew he needed to fuel up for an intense practice, as seen here with a full plate of food.
Blue Eyed Babe
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Even though the years have passed, Dempsey’s luscious locks remain as voluminous as ever (she’s currently rocking a silver-toned style).
Fashion Forward
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Dempsey continued his stylish style in the 90s and appeared more on the red carpets of Los Angeles. She also added round sunglasses to her outfit repertoire for the premiere. Young Guns II in new york
The Camera Loves It
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Magical Star has never been afraid to joke and have fun. At the 1994 premiere of the dramatic film with honorDempsey switched roles with the photographers and got behind the lens on the carpet!
Superstar Sweet
He started his career with Dr. Ten years before he identified as Derek Shepherd, Dempsey starred in the 1995 medical drama. Epidemic With Dustin Hoffman, Morgan Freeman and Rene Russo. At the premiere, the future Sexiest Man Alive framed his face with a longer, curly hairstyle.